On Saturday, October 5, at 10 a.m., a  Guided Tree Walk Along the Oklawaha Greenway will focus on identifying and understanding trees, especially those native to the area.  The program is open to the public at no charge.  Meet at Patton Park in the circular pavilion near the basketball courts.  The walk will take about 90 minutes, returning to Patton Park.  The hike will be held rain or shine.  The program is co-sponsored by Hendersonville Tree Board and Friends of the Oklawaha Greenway.

            Mark Madsen, a member of the Tree Board and an ISA Certified Arborist, will lead the walk.  The tour will start by looking at trees in Patton Park that are suitable for home gardens and then move on to look at many species of native trees in the wetland forest along Mud Creek.

Oklawaha Greenway is a three-mile-long paved walkway meandering through meadows, wetlands, and forests, and linking Jackson Park, Patton Park, and Berkley Park.  The walk will be along a portion of this greenway.

             “The Oklawaha Greenway is popular for recreation, transportation, and family outings,” said Suzanne Hale, a member of the Friends group.  “Especially in autumn, it provides an excellent outdoor classroom to learn more about our native trees.”

            Hendersonville Tree Board is commissioned by the City of Hendersonville to provide advice on the selection and care of trees and shrubs in public places.  The Tree Board also educates the public concerning the economic and aesthetic benefits of trees and shrubs for the community.  The Arbor Day Foundation has recognized Hendersonville as a Tree City USA for 25 years because of its high level of tree care.  The city became a Bee City USA in 2015.

            For more information about the Guided Tree Walk Along the Greenway contact Suzanne Hale, Friends of Oklawaha Greenway, at halesuzanne@hotmail.com.